The Google office in Moscow is unique and inspiring on many levels as it embraces the local identity and the wishes of the employees. It is immediately welcoming, warm and inviting, relaxed yet focused, comfy and still serious as it provides functional and diverse work environments throughout.

Designed with direct input and collaborative engagement of the local Googlers, the new home brings together, previously separated in two locations, engineering, sales, marketing and corporate services, identifying commonalities, essential needs and the collective spirit of the Googlers.

Strong Russian identity

Throughout the design process, the research, analysis and resulting data showed that Moscow employees were strongly aligned with the global identity and values of Google, but they also had a strong desire to reflect these values from a local point of view. They wanted the design to emphasize warmth and family, to reflect the needs of individuals over corporate standards, and they clearly wanted the office to have a strong Russian identity – defined by its rich literature, poetry and natural beauty.

The resulting interior architecture triumphs as it celebrates the culture of the Russian Googlers. Visitors are immediately welcomed at the main reception desk formed out of finely crafted brickwork mirroring the Kremlin’s grand architectural heritage. And in typical Google style, it’s playful and fun - with areas set aside for video games and ping-pong.

The cafeteria was inspired by a classical Russian dining chamber. The food buffets are clad in rich handmade tiles produced by local monks and the ceiling structures reflect light through motifs reminiscent of St. Basil’s and its wondrous ornaments.

The main office area is light, airy and open, with beautiful views over Old Moscow Centre and the Kremlin. Meeting rooms and informal collaboration areas surround and support the workspace. These are delicately designed at a human, almost residential scale and unified through the use of subtle graphics telling tales from childhood cartoons, movies and fanciful fairytales.

Under magic tree

And finally, in the heart of the office there is a special place for Googlers to gather informally in a comfortable, casual setting. It’s a large coffee lounge and break area that is super cozy and relaxed. It a place to unwind, work or quietly converse with coworkers - under a whimsical tree where the mood is magical.